Beijing stops timing food couriers at red lights

Beijing authorities have introduced a new regulation aimed at improving the working conditions of food couriers. From now on, wait times at red lights will be credited to the delivery workers, thereby reducing time pressure on the drivers. Previously, time continued to run while stopping at traffic lights, which had prompted many couriers to engage in risky behaviors, such as speeding or traffic violations.

The system for distributing food orders in China relies heavily on algorithms that calculate routes and set arrival times. The new regulation aims to alleviate some pressure from drivers and ensure that they are not rushed at traffic lights, which typically leads to dangerous situations.

This initiative has been supported by several major delivery platforms that coordinated the adjustments with local authorities. The measures demonstrate that the city administration acknowledges the challenges faced by food couriers and seeks to improve their situation.